Gov. Scott assesses hurricane damage in Flagler County

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Gov. Rick Scott activated the Florida Disaster Fund Monday during a news conference in Flagler County.

Scott said the fund is to “support individuals who are impacted by Hurricane Matthew.”

“We were actually blessed that this storm didn't turn and have a direct hit,” said Scott.

But Matthew had a devastating impact on parts of the coast.

In Flagler Beach, a mile stretch of State Road A-1-A crumbled to pieces after a storm surge eroded the sea wall.

“It is going to take a long time and a concerted effort,” said resident Jay Scott.

Scott and U.S. Rep. John Mica surveyed the damage with officials from the Department of Transportation and the Army Corp of Engineers.

Local leaders said they can't afford to rebuild the highway, so Scott said different sources of funding will have to be requested to get the area up and running.

“We know all know the importance of commerce, the importance of somebody's job and we all want to enjoy our beaches, and so everybody is going to work hard to get this done,” said Scott.

“I feel bad for the small businesses here.  Hopefully they'll be able to recover soon,” Jay Scott said.

The Florida Disaster Fund helps provide financial support to Florida’s communities in times of disaster.

“Many families and businesses were impacted by Hurricane Matthew, and we are fully committed to ensuring every resource is available to help them. Activating the Florida Disaster Fund will give individuals across the country the opportunity to help those in need as we begin the recovery process following this storm. I continue to encourage all Floridians to look out for each other and work together to help our beautiful communities rebuild,” Scott said.

Anyone who would like to make a contribution can visit www.FloridaDisasterFund.org.

The fund is administered by the Volunteer Florida Foundation.

Scott also activated Florida’s Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support small businesses impacted by Hurricane Matthew. The bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will provide short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses that experienced physical or economic damage during the storm and recovery efforts. The application period begins Monday and will be available until Nov. 11.

“While Floridians across the state did all they could to prepare for Hurricane Matthew, this was massive and devastating storm that caused heavy damage throughout our state. I have toured areas throughout Brevard, Volusia, Duval, and Flagler counties and have seen the shattering effects this disaster had on families and small businesses,” said Scott. "Restoring Florida’s small businesses is crucial to helping our communities recover from Hurricane Matthew and the Bridge Loan Program will help provide much needed assistance. We will continue to use every available resource to help restore our resilient communities.”

Cox Media Group